Essex Heritage

Essex County

Scott Souza

Boston Metropolitan Area

Salem

Massachusetts

Essex Heritage is a non-profit organization that rallies our community around saving the unique character of the Essex National Heritage Area (Essex County). We are the only organization that connects the people who live in the 34 cities and towns within our county.

Marblehead

Swampscott

Peabody

Beverly

Danvers

Lynnfield

Hamilton-Wenham

Middlesex County

Chris Rhatigan 

Wakefield

Benjamin Pierce

Melrose

Malden

The Cut - Stage • Studio • Restaurant • Bar

The Jon Butcher Axis has been rocking rooms big and small off and on for 44 years, from their early start at the legendary Rathskellar ('The Rat') and The Channel Club in Boston, to 20,000 seat arenas across the U.S., touring with the likes of Def Leppard, Rush, The J. Geils Band, The Scorpions and INXS. Multiple videos on MTV and ferocious live shows helped them build a loyal and dedicated following, especially across New England. But all good things must come to an end. Recently, Jon Butcher announced via social media (see below) that he would be putting AXIS to bed after a couple Spring dates to close out their amazing history. Jon is and will remain as busy as ever with his other projects, but he feels it's time to give AXIS fans a couple more chances to see him and his longtime bandmates Chris Martin and Marty Richards playing a bunch of those classic songs one more time. There are just two shows remaining as of this writing, so don't miss your chance to catch them one last time.
*Jon Butcher Axis post from their Facebook&nbsp;page on February 28th, 2026.
Dear Fans, Friends &amp; Family
It is with a bittersweet mix of gratitude and appreciation that I announce that AXIS will play its final shows this Spring before calling it a day. And what a day it was! I'll be posting pics, music and more leading up to our final two shows in the coming weeks. And thank you, thank you from the bottom of our hearts for sticking with us. I sincerely hope to see you at one of the shows for HOLY WAR, LIFE TAKES A LIFE, OCEAN IN MOTION and more!
 Special Guest Johnny A
The name ‘Johnny A.’ might not be so mainstream, but there’s no doubt that it’s synonymous with guitar.
His passion began at the age of thirteen, when he first saw the Beatles in Boston, followed two years later by an in-person witnessing of Jimi Hendrix. From there, he was hooked, getting a cheap beginner guitar to try and play along with his early heroes — which also included Yardbirds icons Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck, and Jimmy Page. Soon enough, Johnny A. got it.
By the 1970’s, he was forming bands in the New England area, drawing attention from several established musicians, like Derek and the Dominos’ keyboardist Bobby Whitlock and Doug Clifford of Creedence Clearwater Revival. Johnny A. became Music Director of J. Geils Band singer Peter Wolf’s outfit, coordinating the onstage arrangements, playing on several tours and co-producing Wolf’s 1996 album, *Long Line.* What’s more, he was even asked to join The Yardbirds as their lead guitarist in 2015.
All this is to say that Johnny A. has the chops, and that’s not to mention his prolific solo career. Spanning three full-length albums, Johnny A. has earned a Grammy Award nomination, the honor of Boston Music Awards, “Blues Artist of the Year 2010,” and a spot in the revered Boston Music Hall of Fame. Ever the restless spirit, Johnny A. continues to glide across genres effortlessly, exploring elements of jazz, soul. He still fervently carries on the tradition of the legends he respected as a teen.

Local Event: Jon Butcher Axis - The Final Show - with Special Guest Johnny A

Gloucester

Jon Butcher Axis - The Final Show - with...

The Jon Butcher Axis has been rocking rooms big and small off and on for 44 years, from their early start at the legendary...

Jon Butcher Axis - The Final Show - with Special Guest Johnny A

Red Rock Park

Join Human Harmonies at our free outdoor Tai Chi &amp; Qigong class at Red Rock Park.
10:00am – 11:00am May 9th 2026
Wear comfortable clothes.
You may want to bring water and sunscreen.
Look forward to seeing you there.

Local Event: Free Outdoor Tai Chi & Qigong Class

Free Outdoor Tai Chi & Qigong Class

Join Human Harmonies at our free outdoor Tai Chi & Qigong class at Red Rock Park.
10:00am – 11:00am May 9th 2026
Wear...

First Spiritualist Church of Salem, 34 Warren St., Salem, MA

Join us at 6:30 pm EDST for a night of spirit greetings from your loved ones. Enjoy inspired, loving messages from the folks you miss most and be reassured that the life of spirit is joyous. Mediums will try to reach everyone in attendance (we'll do our best, although not everyone may receive a message). This is a friendly gathering filled with inspired, loving messages followed by a social with sweet treats and beverages. $15 per person. Registration in advance is recommended. Go to https://www.1stspiritsalem.org/general-5

Local Event: Gallery Readings: Connecting with your loved ones in spirit

Gallery Readings: Connecting with your loved...

Join us at 6:30 pm EDST for a night of spirit greetings from your loved ones. Enjoy inspired, loving messages from the folks...

Gallery Readings: Connecting with your loved ones in spirit

Larcom Theatre

Prepare for an exhilarating tribute concert honoring two iconic musical legends. Award-winning artist Robert Black and his band will take you on a journey celebrating the timeless legacies of Johnny Cash and Creedence Clearwater Revival.&nbsp;

Feel the electrifying energy as Robert Black delivers a captivating performance of Johnny Cash's classics like "I Got Stripes," "Cry Cry Cry," "A Thing Called Love," and other iconic hits. And experience the spirit and sound of Creedence Clearwater Revival as Robert Black and his band, Sweet Hitch-Hiker faithfully recreate CCR's greatest hits, including "Sweet Hitch-Hiker," "Have You Ever Seen the Rain," "I Put a Spell On You," and more.&nbsp;

Robert Black’s authentic portrayal of Johnny Cash and John Fogerty, combined with his exceptional vocal talent, stage presence, and costuming, promises an evening filled with pure entertainment. Join us for a night filled with nostalgia and musical brilliance as we pay homage to these legendary artists.

Local Event: Johnny Cash + The Ultimate Creedence Clearwater Revival Experience

Johnny Cash + The Ultimate Creedence Clearwater...

Prepare for an exhilarating tribute concert honoring two iconic musical legends. Award-winning artist Robert Black and his band...

Johnny Cash + The Ultimate Creedence Clearwater Revival Experience

"Everybody Wants Some" is the ultimate tribute to the legendary Van Halen, dedicated exclusively to the electrifying David Lee Roth era. With a reputation for delivering high-octane performances, this band is rapidly becoming the go-to act for Van Halen fans and talent buyers alike.
At the heart of their sound is "Shreddy," whose guitar prowess channels the iconic Eddie Van Halen with jaw-dropping accuracy. His shredding skills, combined with the band's uncanny stage presence, transport audiences back to the golden age of rock. Fans can expect to hear all the hits and classic album tracks that defined a generation, performed with the energy and precision that Van Halen themselves would be proud of.
"Everybody Wants Some" is not just another tribute band; they are the real deal. With a year's worth of high-quality content about to be unleashed, they are poised to prove why they are a premier talent in the tribute band game. Already a top draw in New England, the band is setting their sights on national stages, building their credibility one show at a time. Whether you're a booking agent, talent buyer, or a die-hard Van Halen fan, "Everybody Wants Some" delivers a concert experience that is second to none.

Local Event: Everybody Wants Some – A Tribute to Van Halen

Everybody Wants Some – A Tribute to Van Halen

"Everybody Wants Some" is the ultimate tribute to the legendary Van Halen, dedicated exclusively to the electrifying David Lee...

Danversport

The Boys &amp; Girls Club of Greater Salem is hosting its annual event, Growing Great Futures, on May 14, 2026 at Danversport, 131 Elliott Street, Danvers from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. This casual, family friendly event invites participants to join the Club staff and kids in activities typically found at the afterschool sites. Enjoy delicious food and a cash bar. Play board games, try the putting green, sink an opponent in a corn hole game or make paper flower crafts. Join in the Guess Who is the Club Alumni game. Prizes and a fun time will be available along with a silent, live and cause auction.
The Boys &amp; Girls Club of Greater Salem is the second oldest Club in the United States, providing safe, caring out of school time options for the families of Salem and surrounding communities. Serving children ages 5 to 18, the Club focuses on safety, academic achievement and leadership opportunities for youth to thrive. As a stand-alone nonprofit, the Club relies heavily on donations to be able to offer high quality, low-cost care for the children of the community.

Local Event: Growing Great Futures

Growing Great Futures

The Boys & Girls Club of Greater Salem is hosting its annual event, Growing Great Futures, on May 14, 2026 at Danversport, 131...

A Farewell to Kings (AF2K) is a tribute to the iconic Canadian band, Rush. Based in New Jersey, the band is composed of four passionate musicians equipped with the high caliber gear to faithfully recreate the timeless music of Rush: Zack James (Vocals), Aaron Leone (Guitar), Adam Cyran (Bass/Keys), and Johnny Vines (Drums/Percussion). AF2K brings authentic presentations of the musical eras and tours created by the “Holy Triumvirate” Geddy Lee, Alex Lifeson and Neil Peart, back to the stage and to life for Rush fans young and old. From the epics to the hits and deep cuts, AF2K pays precise attention to detail and is a musical experience unlike any other tribute.

Local Event: A Farewell to Kings - Rush Tribute

A Farewell to Kings - Rush Tribute

A Farewell to Kings (AF2K) is a tribute to the iconic Canadian band, Rush. Based in New Jersey, the band is composed of four...

Jeremiah Lee Mansion 161 Washington Street Marblehead

Marblehead Garden Club Plant Sale Supports Historic Lee Mansion Gardens
Shop annuals, perennials, and native plants, Saturday, May 16 
Event Details:
<ul><li>Saturday, May 16</li><li>8:30-11:00 a.m.</li><li>Jeremiah Lee Mansion, 161 Washington St., Marblehead</li><li>Free admission</li><li>Payment: cash, checks, cards, Venmo</li></ul>
MARBLEHEAD, MA — The Marblehead Garden Club, celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, invites the community to its Plant Sale on Saturday, May 16, from 8:30 to 11:00 a.m. at the historic Jeremiah Lee Mansion, 161 Washington Street, Marblehead. Admission to the event is free, and early arrival is encouraged for the best selection. Cards, cash, checks, and Venmo are accepted.&nbsp;
Set on the beautiful grounds of the Lee Mansion, the sale offers a wide variety of plants for every garden. Shoppers will find perennials for sun and shade, colorful annuals, a variety of dahlia tubers, native wildflowers, culinary plants including herbs, and selections for ground cover and rock gardens.&nbsp;
The Plant Sale is the Garden Club’s primary fundraiser, supporting the care and maintenance of the Lee Mansion’s organic gardens, which prioritize native and historically-appropriate plantings.&nbsp;
A highlight of the sale is a curated selection of plants featured in the Lee Mansion Gardens. These cherished favorites include trillium, Solomon’s seal, lady’s mantle, wild ginger, single or double white bloodroot, and mayapple. The MGC Plant Sale also features a strong selection of native New England plants that support local pollinators.&nbsp;
Not sure what to choose? Knowledgeable garden club members will answer your gardening questions and offer tips on selecting the best options for sun, shade, and problem areas.&nbsp;
Visitors are encouraged to visit our Marblehead Garden Club membership information table. We’ll be giving out hollyhock seeds as part of our centennial celebration, and you can also purchase a copy of our new club cookbook.&nbsp;
Proceeds from the sale help ensure the continued care of the historic grounds. Built in 1768 for Colonel Jeremiah Lee, a prominent Marblehead patriot in the years leading up to the American Revolution, the site remains a treasured part of the community. The Marblehead Garden Club is committed to keeping its gardens flourishing for future generations.&nbsp;

Caption
Marblehead Garden Club Plant Sale coming May 16 at the Jeremiah Lee Mansion

Local Event: Marblehead Garden Club Plant Sale—May 16

Marblehead Garden Club Plant Sale—May 16

Marblehead Garden Club Plant Sale Supports Historic Lee Mansion Gardens
Shop annuals, perennials, and native plants, Saturday,...

The 18th annual Salem Arts Festival returns June 5-7, 2026, as a special "Salem 400+" edition celebrating four centuries of Salem's creative heritage. This free, family-friendly event transforms historic downtown Salem into an immersive artistic experience, attracting over 10,000 visitors annually.
What to Expect
Explore a juried visual arts gallery at Old Town Hall featuring 60+ works by regional artists competing for Best in Show and the John Boris Memorial Award. Browse a curated artisan marketplace across downtown Salem on Saturday and Sunday, with local makers offering ceramics, jewelry, textiles, woodworking, prints, and more.
Experience live performances across multiple outdoor stages throughout the weekend, including music spanning folk to hip hop, dance from flamenco to contemporary, circus arts, poetry, and more. Watch 12 talented muralists transform blank canvases into vibrant 8'×4' artworks during the Mural Slam at Artists' Row, then vote for your favorite via QR code to determine the People's Choice winner.
Participate in hands-on art-making activities, contribute to the festival's signature Community Art Project, and kick off the weekend Friday evening with the Tiny Art Spree—a fast-paced art exchange fundraiser where $20 tickets give you the chance to take home original artwork.
Festival Highlights
Friday, June 5 (5:30-8:30 PM): Gallery opening, performances at Derby Square, and Tiny Art Spree at 7 PM
Saturday, June 6 (11 AM-7 PM): All festival components active—gallery, artisan marketplace, performances, mural slam, community art, interactive activities
Sunday, June 7 (11 AM-6 PM): All festival components continue through closing
Locations &amp; Access
The festival spans downtown Salem's most beloved spaces: Old Town Hall, Derby Square, Artists' Row, Armory Park, the Pedestrian Mall, and areas near the Peabody Essex Museum. Essex Street and Front Street close to vehicles Saturday and Sunday (8 AM-7 PM), creating pedestrian-friendly festival zones.
Free admission to all events and activities. Bathrooms are available at Artists' Row, the NPS Visitor Center, and Destination Salem. Rain contingency plans ensure performances continue regardless of the weather.
Supporting Local Creativity
Produced collaboratively by Salem Main Streets and Creative Collective MA, the Salem Arts Festival strengthens Salem's creative economy while providing platforms for emerging and established artists. The event embodies community connection, economic revitalization, and the celebration of diverse creative voices.
This special "Salem 400+" edition honors Salem's deep artistic roots while looking forward to the next chapter of creative innovation in this historic city.
Plan your visit at salemartsfestival.com

Local Event: Salem Arts Festival 2026

Salem Arts Festival 2026

The 18th annual Salem Arts Festival returns June 5-7, 2026, as a special "Salem 400+" edition celebrating four centuries of...

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